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Introduction

This is a paraphrase of ‘Ouviram do Ypiranga as margens placidas’, the Brazilian national anthem composed by Francisco Manuel da Silva (1795–1865). It is a late work, composed on Gottschalk’s arrival in Rio de Janeiro in May 1869 after his triumphal procession down the West Coast of South America. He was befriended and open-handedly patronized by the Emperor Dom Pedro II and this dazzling display of pianistic fireworks was probably given its first performance at the Emperor’s court in July 1869.

The work is a scintillating series of variations on da Silva’s beguiling theme with some passages of punishing left-hand leaps and bravura octave work, especially in the coda. Here, and in several other places, Gottschalk offers an ‘easier’ alternative; Philip Martin bravely opts for the more effective bars marked ‘Comme l’auteur le joue’, as did Guiomar Novaës in her pioneering recording of the work for Victor in 1927.

It is a curious coincidence that Gottschalk died on the day of the fourth anniversary of the death of the Brazilian anthem’s composer.

Recordings

‘The pre-eminent Gottschalk interpreter of the 1980s and 1990s. Again the piano sound from the fastidious Hyperion team is absolutely flawless. Don't ...‘Another distinguished addition to a most valuable cycle’ (Fanfare, USA)» More

With his idiomatic and graceful style, pianist Philip Martin has established himself as the foremost exponent of Gottschalk. The composer had a unique spontaneity and individuality which Martin’s performances bring vividly to the fore. The complet ...» More